Abstract
This research report explores grassroots and local government approaches to building resilience in local communities with a focus on the Transition Towns movement in Australia. Through an investigation of the Transition Towns approach and its relationship to local government it identifies opportunities to effectively build resilience through collaboration. Current approaches are explored through planning, resilience and Transition literature. Survey research, qualitative document analysis and semi-structured interviews explore the effectiveness of the Transition Towns model, local government planning, and regional policy, for addressing resilience issues such as climate change and peak oil. The analysis of results highlights the importance of, and opportunities for, collaboration between Transition initiatives and local governments within local communities. Specific actions for Transition initiatives and local government planners are recommended to assist in achieving this outcome